tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-127673362024-03-14T01:59:20.118-04:00Fairhaven RoadieAdventures and misadventures of a northern gentleman born again into biking.amidnightriderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13961440167635690163noreply@blogger.comBlogger69125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12767336.post-39575660711362183632006-12-27T18:07:00.000-05:002016-03-21T18:00:08.657-04:00MovedThe fairhaven roadie has moved to a better enhanced blog. Go to <span style="color: red;"><a href="http://amidnightrider.com/">amidnightrider.com</a></span>amidnightriderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13961440167635690163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12767336.post-71015655688558319062006-11-30T20:51:00.000-05:002006-12-27T18:30:01.106-05:00On The Way To The Doctors OfficeThe last day of November and the temperature was a mild 60F. I had intended to ride 20 miles or so and take some photos. One hundred yards from the house and the plans were changing. I ran into Paul M. whom I worked with when I was a field tech for Verizon. He was spending his lunch hour walking the bike path. We chatted for fifteen minutes and both headed towards Fairhaven center.<br /><br />I was tossing around a route that would take me along the peninsula when I spotted a company truck at the new wine and tapas bar under construction. There I met another former co-worker. Actually, one that I broke into the craft. Phil is a thrasher, skier, biker, with lots of tatoos. Always fun to talk with, I spent another twenty minutes talking about the job and the new changes in technology. DSL, FTTP etc. I am trying to get back into that part of the company and am watching very closely the bids. The high tech part is interesting and I am ready to return to working outside.<br /><br />Finally, I managed to force myself to get a move on and get some miles in. This ride was in the same general area as the last but I ventured on lots of side streets, and streets off the side streets.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger2/4200/1558/1600/399913/Synagog%20on%206th%20st..jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; CURSOR: pointer" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger2/4200/1558/200/913408/Synagog%20on%206th%20st..jpg" border="0" /></a>This is a very old Synagogue on 6th St. in New Bedford. Built at the end of the 19th century, it was an integral part of the the city when the very rich textile barons roamed the streets.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Next door is another interesting building that was built in 1891.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger2/4200/1558/1600/344169/6th%20St.%20Bldg.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; CURSOR: pointer" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger2/4200/1558/200/10208/6th%20St.%20Bldg.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />My ride took me to the church I belong to while in grammar school St. James RC church, which boast the stomping grounds of the first pedophile priest accused and convicted in the Churches child rape scandals. Cardinal Law spent lots of time, energy and money trying to <a href="http://www.crimelibrary.com/serial_killers/predators/porter/index_1.html">cover up the crimes. </a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger2/4200/1558/1600/828508/St%20James%20Church.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger2/4200/1558/200/657838/St%20James%20Church.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />I rode by St. Luke hospital where I saw a bunch of men standing outside the emergency room chewing the fat and smoking. .<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger2/4200/1558/1600/149192/ER%20Smokers.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger2/4200/1558/200/344444/ER%20Smokers.jpg" border="0" /></a>It's only a matter of time before their friends will be standing out there when they are rushed in.<br /><br /><br />Across from the ER is the original nurses dormitory. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger2/4200/1558/1600/787172/Old%20Nurses%20Residence.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger2/4200/1558/200/661316/Old%20Nurses%20Residence.jpg" border="0" /></a>Like the school teacher of the time, only single women were allowed into the field.<br /><br />A property with a few grand old Maples got my attention. This was the best of the bunch.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger2/4200/1558/1600/459951/Maple%20Tree%203.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger2/4200/1558/200/484779/Maple%20Tree%203.jpg" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger2/4200/1558/1600/263270/Hemlock%20St.%20Home.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; CURSOR: pointer" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger2/4200/1558/200/597194/Hemlock%20St.%20Home.jpg" border="0" /></a>I had a chance to shoot a couple of the area stately homes before heading to the doctors office. I have been discovering many of these gems I never noticed till I began biking.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger2/4200/1558/1600/452402/Home%20near%20St.%20Lukes.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger2/4200/1558/200/876855/Home%20near%20St.%20Lukes.jpg" border="0" /></a>amidnightriderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13961440167635690163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12767336.post-1164588758061912062006-11-26T19:08:00.000-05:002007-10-31T11:26:21.871-04:00Shopping is Done!Wifey and I spent the weekend in Freeport Maine with our good friends the Johnsons. We got just about all of our shopping done for the holidays, which include Christmas and birthdays. Both boys and Sue celebrate theirs in December. <br />The weekend was split with the daytime spent shopping in Freeport and the evenings doing vacation stuff in Portland. <br /><br />We stopped for lunch at the <a href="http://www.muddyrudder.com/fmh/ambience.html" target=_"blank">Muddy Rudder</a> in Falmouth Maine. It's a tradition for us to begin our holiday weekend with a delicious Lobster Bisque. Actually that is Sue's tradition. Since I have to lose so much weight, I opted for a baked scrod dish, which was also very good. We were able to get a bottle of my favorite wine McMurray Ranch Pinot Noir. <br /><br />Satisfied, it was a short drive to our accomodations <a href="http://www.harraseeketinn.com/" target=_"blank">The Harraseeket Inn.</a><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Freeport%2006/HarraseeketInn.jpg"><P><P><br />Soon after I distinctly heard a voice say, "Let the Shopping Begin". Wifey was off like a dog chasing a meat wagon. LLBean Outlet store where returns are resold really cheap, was her first stop. Patagoinia, North Face oh heck, just <a href="http://www.freeportusa.com/FreeportVideoTour.html" target=_"blank"><font color=red>Click here</font></a>, for a video tour. <P><P><br /><br />After some warmup shopping for the girls, we drove to Portland for dinner and the evenings activities. J's Oyster bar was the spot. If you have been to Portland, walk into the parking lot of the tourist spot DeMilos, look left and there it is. J's, where the locals eat. It's din-gy, kind of rough looking, and the clientle is mostly drunk and derilicks. This was according to the guy smoking outside as we approached. "Thats ok", I said. "I'm an undercover derilict". The seafood is very good. Alaskan King Crab with steamers for me. Lobster Pernot for the ladies and a medium "bucket" of steamers and oyster stew, for my buddy Jack. <P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Freeport%2006/2217713-Js_Oyster_Bar-Portland.jpg"><P><P><br /><br /><br />The girls shopped most of the morning and well past lunch on Saturday. We wanted to take a hike before going back to Portland for a movie and dinner. The hike worked out pretty well. It was and easy hour of flat hardpack. The temperature hovered around 50 with no wind. It was actually a pretty good day for a walk in the woods.<P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Freeport%2006/BaxterSchoolcausway.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Freeport%2006/BaxterLake.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Freeport%2006/DonnaandSueinBaxter.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Freeport%2006/HarleyonaBike.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />Some have it better than others. (freeloader)</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Freeport%2006/StickerCar.jpg"><P><P><br />The movie was much better than we all expected. "The Queen"<P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Freeport%2006/thequeen3.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />Your could hear a pin drop in the theater. If you've seen it, you know what I mean.</font><P><P><br />We ended the evening in Portland at Street and Co. This gem was recommended by our waitress at the Muddy Rudder. She said it was her husbands' favorite. (He is and executive chef). We tried it. She was right. It went right to the top of the better restaurants where I have dined.<P><br />Fisherman Stew for me. A Mediteranian dish with shrimp, scallops, tuna, swordfish, mussles, clams, and salmon. All cooked in a wonderfull sauce. (dipping bread in the sause was as good as the meal). Wife had the sushi grade tuna, seared not cooked. The Johnsons had something or other that I can't recall because I was so enthralled with my dish. (and the cute waitresses scurrying around the place). <P><br /><br />Sunday morning was quiet and would have been another great bike riding day. Saturday afternoon was perfect. Because we were with friends I didn't bring my bike. There was quite a bit of down time for me while the others were shopping. Like the saying goes, "If I only knew then.....". Next year for sure. I did walk alone on Sunday morning and here is the photo journal. <P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Freeport%2006/McDonnaldinFreeport.jpg"><br><font color=red> <br />McDonnalds, Yes, "the" one with the clown.</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Freeport%2006/Lovebirds.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Freeport%2006/PatrioticFreeportHome.jpg"><P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Freeport%2006/RailroadtrackinFreeport.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Freeport%2006/Pig.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Freeport%2006/WW1MemorialinFreeport.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Freeport%2006/GraveyardfamilyinFreeport.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Freeport%2006/SunShiningonFreeportGraveyard.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Freeport%2006/FreeportSideStreet.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Freeport%2006/BridgeoverrailroadinFreeport.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Freeport%2006/RailroadCountinghouse.jpg"><P><P><br />Later.amidnightriderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13961440167635690163noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12767336.post-1163983813635259692006-11-19T18:36:00.000-05:002006-11-19T20:06:11.366-05:00Boats, Buildings and ElephantsSince it was 45 degrees and sunny, it seemed like a good day for a bike ride. With the camera in my handlebar bag, the ride began. Beginning on the waterfront, continuing to the city checking out the architecture and looking for elephants. <P><P><br />My first sight was the Steamship Authority repair facility in Fairhaven. A couple of laborers working this Sunday, acknowledged me and continued to do what ever they were doing. After a couple of pictures the boss man came out of the trailer and told me "This is private property, and you don't belong here". Me possibly taking pictures for the "terrorists" crossed his mind, I'm sure. I was close to saying a couple of things like, "It's not private, it's state property". and "I know about the property, I'm one of the owners". I did manage to get a couple of photos.<P><P><br /><br /><br><font color=red>SS Marthas Vinyard</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/VinyardBoats.jpg" border="0"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/FishingFleet.jpg" border="0"> <P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/SSMarthasVinyard.jpg" border="0"><P><P><br /><br />I continued into the city, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Bedford,_Massachusetts">(New Bedford, Ma.)</a> and found some more great old homes. At one time New Bedford was the richest city in the world, or maybe it was only the US. Either way there was a lot of money to be had during the Whaling, then the Textile eras'. <P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Winter%20Bike%2006/NB%20Architecture/BlueMansionMadisonSt.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Winter%20Bike%2006/NB%20Architecture/CoblestonesBuilding.jpg" border="0"><br><font color=red>Cobblestones Restaurant</font><P><P><br /><br /><br />The city is beginning to revitalize. The one giant piece missing is the train to Boston. Once that happens, the possibilities are very positive. <P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Winter%20Bike%2006/NB%20Architecture/NewBedfordwallart.jpg" border="0"><br><font color=red> Wall Art</font><P><P><br />On a bicycle, the rider is usually going slow enough to see things most people do not. For example this little hidden gem.<P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Winter%20Bike%2006/NB%20Architecture/StonebldgOrchardSt.jpg" border="0"><P><P><br />And this small "court" I stumbled upon while riding up a side street.<P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Winter%20Bike%2006/NB%20Architecture/MadisonCt-1.jpg" border="0"><P><P><br />My ride continued through <a href="http://www.freewebs.com/newenglandlegends/ruralcemetery.htm">Rural Cemetery</a><br><font color=red> Plenty of legends and ghost stories</font><P><br />Also was a quick ride through <a href="http://www.bpzoo.org/">Buttonwood Park</a><P><P> <br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Animals/Bison.jpg" border="0"> <br><font color=red>Bison</font><P><P><br />And yes I did find everything I was looking for. <P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Animals/Elephants.jpg" border="0"><P><P><br /><br />Later.amidnightriderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13961440167635690163noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12767336.post-1162928133932819612006-11-07T14:24:00.000-05:002007-02-04T10:59:27.178-05:00Celebrating With the RevsA little too much. <P></P><br /><P>Sometimes all the stars line up. I got to the hotel Saturday around noon. The Revolution players were staying there and they are all very friendly and open to talk, picture taking or whatever. I got to chat a little with a couple of them, but decided not to bother them before the big match. Let them concentrate on business, so to speak. <P></P><br /><P>The general manager, who years ago was my ticket rep, said hello and introduced me to a couple other front office guys. It was pretty neat meeting all these big wigs.<P></P><br /><P>I needed to get some wine for the game on Sunday and walked the 10 blocks to the ABC store. I learned that the ABC stores do not sell wine. Luckily a customer refered me to a Spanish restaurant around the corner that would allow me into their wine celler to purchase a couple of bottles. <P><P></P><br /><P><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Soccer/DC%20_11_04/TapasandWineatJaleo.jpg"><P><P></P><br /><P>It's a great tapas place that I decided to try later in the evening. On the walk back, wine in hand, a couple of fans from NY saw my Revolution jacket and struck up a conversation. Even though they were from NY, I invited them to our tailgate the next day. (All Revs fans are welcome). They declined saying their plans were already made. <P></P><br /><P>Back at the hotel, I met a couple of the players parents, more players and tv and radio people. Next thing I know Brandi Chastain shows up. Remember her? Here is a refresher. <P></P><br /><P><img src="http://wzus.ask.com/r?t=a&d=us&s=a&c=p&ti=1&ai=30751&l=dir&o=0&sv=0a300527&ip=a64486af&u=http%3A%2F%2Fhome.millsaps.edu%2Fmcelvrs%2FBrandi_Chastain.jpg"></img><P><P></P><br /><P>Here come the two guys from NY walking through the lobby. I want to give them a heads up that hanging around the lobby is a great place to meet the players, and they may even see some tv peronalities like Brandi Chastain. "Brandy Chastain" one of them say. "That Brandi" who was standing right behind me? </P><br /><P>Crap. Then she starts talking to them and go grab a table and begin chatting. My friend the GM was nearby, I told him what had just happened and pointed to the three of them at the table. "Those are the ESPN guys" he says. "The director and producer of tomorrows show". I guess they really did'nt need me to meet the celebs. <P></P><br /><P><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Soccer/DC%20_11_04/CummingsArenaWynaldaThornberg.jpg"><br><font color=red></P><br /><P>Joe Cummings, RKO radio announcer. Bruce Arena. The former natioal team coach and ESPN TV. Eric Wynalda ESPN TV color commentator and Craig Thornberg. Revolution GM. </font><P><P></P><br /><P><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Soccer/DC%20_11_04/ridersgroup5.jpg"><br><font color=red></P><br /><P>The traveling Midnight Riders supporters.</font><P><P></P><br /><P><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Soccer/DC%20_11_04/Playerscheeringfans.jpg"><br><font color=red></P><br /><P>The players acknowledging us after the victory. </font> <P><P></P><br /><P><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Soccer/DC%20_11_04/Marchingout1.jpg"><br><font color=red></P><br /><P>Marching out of the stadium. The yellow jackets in the rear are part of the security who were with us all day. </font><P><P></P><br /><P><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Soccer/DC%20_11_04/Postgameathotel.jpg"><br><font color=red></P><br /><P>Waiting for the players to arrive back at the hotel.</font> <P></P><br /><P>That was till the guy sitting down told us they had already left for airport and return flight to Boston. <P><P></P><br /><P>My wine drining buddy from the home tailgates found a wine named "Revolution" <P></P><br /><P><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Soccer/DC%20_11_04/RichwithRevolutionwine.jpg"></P><br /><P><font color=red>Revolution wine. 15% alcohol</font><P></P><br /><P>You know where this is going right. <P><P></P><br /><P><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Soccer/DC%20_11_04/DrunkAsian.jpg"><P> <P></P><br /><P>We'll just walk it off. <P><P></P><br /><P><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Soccer/DC%20_11_04/IllAsian.jpg"><br><font color=red> Which one of the three did not make it into the game? </font><P><P></P><br /><P>If anyone is wondering. Yes I did.<P><P></P><br /><P><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Soccer/DC%20_11_04/DCBikefriendly.jpg">amidnightriderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13961440167635690163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12767336.post-1162562471485043122006-11-03T09:00:00.000-05:002006-11-03T09:05:03.566-05:00Road Trip<FONT size=2><br /><P></P><br /><P></P></FONT><FONT face="Times New Roman" size=4><br /><P>I'll be leaving for Washington DC tomorrow morning. All for the big game on Sunday. Wifey was going to join me, but the kennel (for the dogs) was booked. I suggested that we call another kennel but nooooo, the dogs like this one. When it came time for me to book a hotel, it was suggested that I just find the cheapest. I'm beginning to understand where I fit in the pack. To the dogs, I'm Alpha. To everyone else, I'm a lot deeper in the Greek alphabet. Somewhere around Gamma. <P><P></P><br /><P><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/RileyandPolly2.jpg"><P><P><P></P><br /><P>I'm staying in Crystal City at the same hotel as the Revs. Two years ago the Revs lost in overtime to United and we all drowned our sorrows at the Crystal City Mariott bar. I'm hoping for a celebration this year. I was looking forward to sightseeing with the lovely one on Saturday, but I will have to play the part of the lonely tourist. </P><br /><P> </P><br /><P>There are 150 or so of us making the trip, representing the "Fort".<P><P></P><br /><P><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Other%20peoples/FortDallas.jpg"><P><P></P><br /><P>RFK is a very hostile venue for visiting fans so the club is providing security to escort us into and out of the stadium. We have our own section, isolated from DC's supporters groups, like Barra Brava. <P><P></P><br /><P><img src="http://adeptos.no.sapo.pt/MJunho/RiverBorrachosTabl%F3n.jpg"></img><P><P><br /><P>We will have security all around us, and we will be placed in the uppers section to prevent the DC fans from throwing things at us. Man, I love this game. <P><P></P><br /><P>Sunday, 4PM ESPN. I won't be smoking, but anything else is possible. Wifey will be at home, don't forget.<P></P><br /><P>Pictures and more next week. If we survive.<P> </P><br /><P>Healthy Day<br></P><br /><P>John</P><br /><P></P><br /><P></P></FONT><FONT size=2></FONT>amidnightriderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13961440167635690163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12767336.post-1157706687869337282006-09-19T13:53:00.000-04:002007-04-03T20:50:38.533-04:00Provence, FranceSue and I left Boston under the usual security hogwash: No water bottles or any other liquids: On passanger arrived late, and we had to wait for them to take his luggage off the plane because he was denied boarding. In Amsterdam the plane waited for the late passenger. Go figure.<br /><br />We arrived in Marselle but only stayed long enough to visit the Notre Dame of the Sea Cathederal. We had a nice lunch after the tour and drove to Casis, our home while in France. We got a car with GPS, which is necessary in a foreign land. I,m finding the keyboard foreign also. It is just different enough to have to slow down a bit to look at the keys. It would look like this if I didn,t. (It zould look like this if I didn%t). Just a little off.<P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Provence/DowtownfromNortreDameMarselle.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />Marselle</font><P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Provence/Marselle.jpg"><P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Provence/Logan.jpg"><br><font color=red>Logan Airport in Boston.</font><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">CASIS</span><br />Day 1<br />We took a boat to En Vau, and hung around that Calanques for a couple of hours then hiked out. The first part of the hike, to Port Pin, was very steep and treacherous. Hiking into the Colanques there is a warning sign. There may have been a sign at our end, but we were too much in awe of the whole place:<br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Provence/EnVau.jpg"><br><font color=red>En Vau, Casis France.</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Provence/Beginhike.jpg"><br><font color=red>Begin the hike out</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Provence/Lookingbacktostartofhike.jpg"><br><font color=red>Looking back to the start of the hike.</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Provence/RockclimberinColunque.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />Shortcut</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Provence/Dangersign.jpg"><br /><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Provence/OverlookinEnvau.jpg"><br><font color=red>Ma and Pa at the top of En Vau.</font><P><P><br />We continued to Port Miou where we lunced on baguette, ham and some very creamy Chamonbert cheese. When we finally arrived back in Casis, we rewarded ourselves with a cold French beer.<P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Provence/Lunch.jpg"><br><font color=red>Lunch at Port Miou, French Riviera </font><P><P><br /><br />After dinner, while strolling around we heard a lot of cheering from a nearby Cafe. My instinct made me shout "soccer game". The Euro qualifier that was the rematch of the French/Italian world cup. This time the result was as it should be. <br />3 France<br />1 Italy <br /><br />Keith wanted to go back to the Colanques by kayack. Sue took the boat and I hung around town for a while before hiking out and meeting Sue halfway. I didn´t want to do that steep one again. On the way our I met a couple of 30ish Artist following the paths of Renoir. They were good company and we split at the final path to Colunque En Vu. Sue arrived just as I was preparing lunch. We stuck up a converstation with the young park ranger Jean. He had been to America a couple of times and specifically to Boston and Cape Cod. <br /><br />In general we found all the French in provence very friendly. Jean told us that in other parts of France, the locals really dislike Americans. I told him it is the same in America. There are lots of backwards people who dislike the French. Especially those who had never been to France.<P><P><br /><br /><font color=red>Here is some information about hiking the Calanques of the French Riviera.</font><P><br /><a href="http://www.beyond.fr/villages/cassis.html#hiking" target_="blank">Hiking the Calanques of Casis</a><p><br /><a href="http://www.beyond.fr/sites/calanques.html" target_="blank">Good General Calanques Information</a><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Day 3 Avignon</span> <a href="http://s4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Avignon/" target_="blank">Click Here </a> for photobucket slidshow.<br /><br /><br />We drove to Avignon for a day trip. We visited <a href="http://www.pontdugard.fr/index.php?langue=GB" target_="blank"> Site Du Pont Gard,</a> an aqueduct built over two thousand years ago by the Romans.<br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Avignon/PontduGard640.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Avignon/PontduGard3640.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Avignon/PontduGard2640.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Avignon/PontduGard1640.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Avignon/PontduGardmaandpa640.jpg"><P><P><br /><br />After lunch in town, we met up with our Dutch guide Mike, of <a href="http://www.avignon-et-provence.com/wine-tours/wine-safari/french-wine-tours.htm" target_="blank">Wine Safari</a>.<br />We toured the popes summer home on the Rhone, a drive through the Cotes de Rhone wine district. The trip culminated at a small wine family farm. They had just harvested the first batch of white grapes for the 2006 year and had just begun the first process of the winemaking.<br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Avignon/Harvestofwhitecotesdrhone640.jpg"><br><font color=red> 2006 white grape harvest</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Avignon/Touringwinefield640.jpg"><br><font color=red>Touring the vinyard</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Avignon/Grappa640.jpg"><br><font color=red>The leftovers, to make grappa</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Avignon/winetasting640.jpg"><br><font color=red> Tasting</font><P><P><br /><br />Dinner was a little out of the way villiage of <a href="http://www.ot-islesurlasorgue.fr/in-english/isle-sur-la-sorgue.php" target_="blank">Isle-sur-la-Sorgue.</a> We dined at a very very gormet place called "Chambrex Les Trois Figuiers". I can,t say them either. Yes, it was as expensive as it sounds. Sue and Keith loved the place. Too Fancy pants for my tastes, but it did come highly recommended by <a href="http://www.ricksteves.com/" target_="blank">Rick Steves</a><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Avignon/Avignonpalaceofpope1640.jpg"><br><font color=red> The Popes Palace in Avignon</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Avignon/Avignonstreet640.jpg"><br><font color=red> Avignon Street</font><br /><br />To be continued:amidnightriderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13961440167635690163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12767336.post-1158233309727756232006-09-19T13:52:00.000-04:002006-09-23T09:43:40.346-04:00Catalonia9 Sept.<br /> <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Barcelona</span><br /><font color=red> Snapfish slideshow <a href="http://www1.snapfish.com/share/p=698221158980664933/l=210315851/g=1396163/cobrandOid=1000001/otsc=SYE/otsi=SALB">HERE</a>.<br> If your not a snapfish member,go to <a href="http://www.bugmenot.com" target=_"blank">bugmenot.com</a> for a password for this or any other site that requires you to join.</font> <P><P><P><br />A five hour drive from Casis got us into the city around 2PM. We met Todd at a tapas restaurant on the main pier.<br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Tapasonthepier.jpg"><P><P><br /><br />Sue and I had made arrangements to meet our friends the Johnsons, who were departing from the city on a Mediterranian tour. We never did find them, but had no problem finding their ship.<br /><br />While walking, I did see a young bike tourer. He was very easy to pick out by how dirty his bike was. And the paniers of course. I should have stopped and asked if he was posting on crazyguyonabike.com. He was making some progress with a very pretty local, so I let him be. <br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/VoyageroftheSea.jpg"><P><P><br /><br /><br />We had little time to spare because we had tickets for opening day at Camp Nu and F.C.Barcelona. The home team had an easy 3-0 victory.<br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Stadium.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/MaandPainStadium.jpg"><P><P><br /><br />98,000 people leaving at one time kind of clogs the transit system. We four decided to find a place to eat nearby. At 11PM we dined at a place that was the best we have had on the trip. The owner was a character and treated us very well. He ended our evening with a complimentary brandy. We made our way back to the hotel via the underground and topped a great day by walking the Main St. of Barcelona, La Rambla.<P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Downtown.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />La Rambla</font><P><P><br /><br />Our second day in Barca was great for the family. I found the site seeing kind of boring. Churches, museums and old buildings. At first it is nice, but it gets old quickly.<br /><br />Todd took us to a very fancy restaurant he visited on his last trip. Sue and I kept glancing at each other with raised eyebrows looking at the prices. Yikes! The boys surprised us by picking up the tab. It was a bill that needed two people to pay. We finished dinner at 1AM and walked a couple of miles back to the hotel. That was good stuff.amidnightriderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13961440167635690163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12767336.post-1158234487662167102006-09-19T13:51:00.000-04:002006-09-21T09:28:48.123-04:00Majorca11 Sept. 2001<br />We spent the day at the Catalonia festivle celebrating their original independence from Spain I think. Many of the banners say "We are not Spain". It was pretty interesting and something to do while waiting for our 3PM flight to Majorca.<P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/CataloniaFestival.jpg"><P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/ArcDeTriumphCatalonia.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/bocciinbarca.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />Locals playing bocce</font><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Vacation part II</span><br /><br />The first part of the holidays was historical and standard stuff. Restaurants, museums, sightseen etc. Now for my favorite type. <br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">MAJORC SPAIN</span><br /><br />Majorca is an island off the coast of Barcelona. We have a great apartment and a studio for the boys.<br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Majorca/640CasaSerena.jpg"><br><font color=red> Arrival at our abode</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Majorca/640Serenabackyard.jpg"><br><font color=red> Our back yard</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Majorca/640SerenaKitchen.jpg"><br><font color=red> The main room</font><br /><br /><br />Great beaches, cheap restaurants, and lots of expensive boats. One of the better features is the lack of Americans. After all, we can see as many as we want at home and this gives us a chance to be the outsiders. Lots of Brits, Germans and Dutch. <br /><br />The beaches here have no problem wth topless bathing. It´s so common that no one pays much attention. Like anything, there are extremes. I have pictures of one extreme. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">12 Sept.</span><br /><br />We drove to Cals Mondrago for the day. (<br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Majorca/640Sidwaysbeachscene.jpg"><P><P><br /> <br />When we returned we met the owner of our condo Jourgen and his wife. They are from Hamburg and are a great fun loving couple in the mid 40´s. Jourgen is returning Friday evening with a 5 litre keg of his favorite German beer. I told him it was my favorite ever though I had never hear of it. His wife mentioned it to me and said to him it was mothers milk. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">13 Sept</span><br /><br />We left the apt early to tour the island. A farmers market. An Old Roman Town and a ritzy port. <br /><br />We had lunch in Sineu. It is famous for it´s wine cellar restaurants.<P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Majorca/640LookingforRestaurant.jpg"><br><font color=red> Looking for restaurant</font><P><P><br /><br /><<img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Majorca/640DininginWineCellarRestaurant-1.jpg"><br><font color=red> Dining in the famous wine cellar restaurants.</font><P><P><br /><<br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Majorca/640BikingSpain.jpg"><br><font color=red> Bike tour with sag. </font><P><P><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Majorca/640PeruIndianperformers.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Majorca/640MaandnewFriend.jpg"><br><font color=red> Sue makes a new friend</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Majorca/640Overlookingtown.jpg"><br><font color=red> Sineu</font><P><P><br /><b>Pollenca</b><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Majorca/640Alongclimb.jpg"><br><font color=red> A long climb up the stairs in Pollenca</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Majorca/LookingBackaftertheclimb.jpg"><br><font color=red> The reward for climbing</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Majorca/640BikingDowntheStairsinSineu.jpg"><br><font color=red>{{{{{Theeee Quiiiickkkk Wayyyyyy DDowwwwnnnnn}}}}}</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Majorca/640TelephoneManonSiesta.jpg"><br><font color=red> <br />I heard the telephone man was on holiday in the States. </font><P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Majorca/640RomanSt.jpg"><P><P><br />We got back home at 8PM, bought some pizza and opened a bottle of Cotes D Rhone wine that were purchased at the winery during our tour of Casis. <P><br /><br />Most of the places are very touristy, which make us apppreciat our accomodations so much more. Our place is more like going home, as opposed to going back to hotel.amidnightriderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13961440167635690163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12767336.post-1158415933871563282006-09-19T13:50:00.000-04:002006-09-20T14:18:38.056-04:00PalmaFriday 15 Sept. <br /><br />Sue and Todd were supposed to take a boat to spend a day at some island. It was cancelled yesterday. Keith was off rock climbing with his freind Jonah. I had the day to my self again. Just walking around town and down by the marina. I visited our friends at the Irish place before walking to the market for evening tapas. Tonight is the night our hosts Jourgen and Babbette were comming over with beer. <br /><br />The boat was cancelled again so Sue and Todd spend the day in Palermo. It´s what I was going to do on Saturday. They had also gone shopping for tapas. We had tons of food. Much to much for six people. Keith invided his friends Jonah and Annie from Seattle. I invited our Dutch neighbors and the German neighbors invited themselves. That was ok. For a last minute deal, the party came off very well.<br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Majorca/640Partyatourplace.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />Jorgen in orange brought the beer. We supplied the food.</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Majorca/640Kegsofbeer.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />Five liter kegs</font><P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Majorca/640Boysinkitchen.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />Preparing tapas for the party.</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Majorca/640Jonahandthebaby.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />An American couple from Seattle with their two month old baby.</font><br /><br />Saturday 16 September.<br /><br />Our last day. We spent part of the afternoon at the beach with Keith and Todd. Sue and I left early to change and to take Sue to meet Sarah the pot bellied pig.<br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Majorca/640MagivingSarahacookie.jpg"><P><P><br /><br />A last supper at the Irish Bistro before packing up to go home.<P><P><br /> <br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Majorca/640Irishbistro.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Majorca/640DinnerattheBistro.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Majorca/640TwoHandedGuiness.jpg"><P><P><br />Our flight left Majorca at 8AM, (10 PM EST). We flew to Madrid, Amsterdam and finally arriving in Boston at 5PM on the 17th. <P><P><br /> <br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Euro%202006/Majorca/640Madridfromplane2.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />Madrid from the plane</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Amsterdam/1061960-Shopping_in_a_busy_internat.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />Amsterdam Airport shopping.</font>amidnightriderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13961440167635690163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12767336.post-1156729100906783922006-08-27T21:24:00.000-04:002006-08-29T11:46:11.380-04:00Padanaram Ma. to Newport R. I.Todd flew in from Atlanta to attend a wedding reception and visit ma and pa. While here we took a trip to Padanaram Village, in Dartmouth Ma. <br /><br />Lunch was the first item and we decided to head to the Portuguese district and Adega restaurant. Adega is one of our favorite Saturday night spots but todays lunch was not very good. Everyone deserves an off day I suppose. But the wine was good and the company was great. <P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Adega.jpg"><br><font color=red> Adega Resteraunt in New Bedford, Ma. </font><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/InsideAdaga.jpg"></img><br /><P><br />We traveled to the village of Padanaram to browse around the local shops and while there we stopped for ice cream to top off our lunches. I had my first attempt at shrinking someone for a picture, using Todd as my subject. <P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Firstattemptatshrinking.jpg"><br><font color=red> My shrinking needs practice.</font><br /><br /><b><u>Crys from Toronto</u></b><P><P><br />Crys met us in Newport for some sighseeing and dinner.<P><br /><br />I got an e-mail that Margie would be in Newport on Saturday. She suggested meeting for dinner, and left it up to us where to dine. Sue and I disagreed on the dining experience. She wanted Italian and I want to visit a very, very eclectic place called The Salvation Cafe. This is because most of the furnishing and decorations were bought at the Salvation Army thrift store. Nothing matches in either style or color. It's great. <P><br />We agreed to meet near the Tennis Hall of Fame, and after a little bit of confusion, we "hooked up". (It's a different meaning than when your kids "hook up"). <P><br />I was determined to get the squishing heads thing mastered after seen it done <a href="http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/pics/01/docs/00/00/12/91/small/squishheads.jpg?v=142">here</a><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Margie%20Visits%2006/ShrunkenMargie.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />Nothing a little practice can't solve</font><br /> <br />We hopped in the Vibe and took a ride on 12 mile drive. It's a beautiful road along the ocean. The homes are not as outlandish as the mansions of Newport but the "are" over the top in their own way. <P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Margie%20Visits%2006/Newportcove2.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Margie%20Visits%2006/Newportcove.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />The house is the background is so big because three people live there. sheesh.</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Margie%20Visits%2006/SueandMargieatNewportcove.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />Sue and Margie ohhh-ing and ahhhh-ing over the view. </font><P><P><br />We stopped at the kite flying area, (it's always windy along the ocean). Usually there are very unique kiters' and kite flying teams that give a great show displaying their kite flying skills. Sadly we got there too late in the day and they had already left. <P><br />Our next stop was Fort Adams, which is also the site of the "Newport Jazz Festival". <P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Margie%20Visits%2006/MargieandSueLearningaboutFt.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />Reading the history of Fort Adams</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Margie%20Visits%2006/FortAdamsinNewport.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />Oceans side view of Fort Adams</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Margie%20Visits%2006/GriswoldsTavern.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />Where it all started.</font> <P><P><br />We ate <a href="http://www.sardellas.com/" target=_"blank">here</a>. Like you hadn't guessed already. <P><br />p.s. The wine was good with dinner also. <br />Endamidnightriderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13961440167635690163noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12767336.post-1156252800683967002006-08-22T08:49:00.000-04:002006-08-22T20:47:39.980-04:00Changing WeatherMy car is in the shop for what I think is brake problems. That tell tale scraping sound that is usually preceeded by squeeking. I think my radio covered the intial indication (squeek), so I now may have to pay the fiddler. Sue let me take the mini to work, which left her with no car for the day. Very sweet. I attached the bike rack, loaded the bike and stuffed my carryons in the back seat before heading to the commuter lot.<br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/mini.jpg"><br /><br /><br /><br />The first few minutes of the commute are getting chilly. Time to pack a windbreaker or light jacket in the trunk bag. I have been noticing more and more sights that I have ridden by for three years. Things like these buildings in downtown Taunton.<br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/commute/TauntonInsurance.jpg"><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/commute/WinthropBaptist.jpg"><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/commute/TauntonCityHall.jpg"><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/commute/ChurchatOakSt.jpg"> <br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/commute/OldservicestationinTaunton.jpg"><br /><br />Today, while riding through the State Hospital I came upon a hawk on the ground, just off the road. She was no more than 5 feet from me, and very big. We both froze for a few seconds and just looked at each other. She broke the stalemate and few onto a nearby tree. Usually when I have approached a hawk in the past they fly out of the tree and disappear. Today this one just sat there and watched me. I was able to get a couple of photos.<br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/commute/Hawk.jpg"><br /><br />Back on my commute I decided to backtrack and see what she may have been having for breakfast. She didn't like this and left her roost to buzz me. I wasn't sure this was intentional till she did it a second time. That was my cue to leave her alone and get myself to work.amidnightriderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13961440167635690163noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12767336.post-1155998710938399172006-08-19T10:43:00.000-04:002006-08-22T20:48:40.423-04:00Dinner and a ShowWe began the evening at the Black Bass Grill in Padanaram Village. A coastal resort in the town of Dartmouth Ma. Our customary Saturday night dinner friends, the Johnsons, (Jack and Donna) joined us this beautiful Friday evening for entres on the lawn.<br /><br />My meal, steamed mussles and hot Italian sausage, was served with a spicy marinara sauce over linguini. A smooth pinot noir complimented the meal and enhanced the conversation. <P><br /><br />Sue's plate, perfectly grilled native scallops, was served with rice and fresh assorted vegetables. Her favorite drink, a martini, (which every week is a different color), kept her palat fresh. <br /><br />A short ride in the Mini Cooper brought us to the Historic District of New Bedford.<P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/NationalPark3.jpg"><P><P><br /><br />Our destination was the <a href="http://www.zeiterion.org/">Zeiterion Perfoming Arts Center</a>, a restored Vaudeville theater built in the 1920's that hosted many of the big time performers of the era. <br /><br /> Donna was worried about the crowds at the theater and decided to go ahead and get seated. Since we had almost an hour before the show, Sue and I decided to visit a new downtown watering hole named Finns. This quaint bar provided one more little somthing to settle the stomach. Sue had a green one this time, and I a spot of Crown Royal over ice.<P><br /><br />"A refil" asked the bartender. "No thanks", I said, "it's showtime". A leisurely walk to the theater brought us to our seats next to our dinner mates. I saw so many old friends there I kind of felt like the mayor. Dianne, a grammer school classmate, was seated just in front of us. Two rows behind was a high school chum, and while talking to him, waving arms a few rows back caught my attention. A park basketball friend from the old neighborhood was saying his "how do you do's". <br /><br />The lights dimmed, the band began it introductory music, and the M C began. "Ladies and gentlemen, put your hands together and give a warm New Bedford welcome to the Temptations". <br /><br /><br />What a night.amidnightriderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13961440167635690163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12767336.post-1155731242927624042006-08-16T08:23:00.000-04:002006-08-16T10:31:39.130-04:00End of HiatusDistance 20 miles<br /><br />Back to the commute today after three days off the bike. The new workout routine at the Y is still being evaluated. It seems too easy and I will e-mail Tom my PT and ask. <br /><br />The ride today was different. It was too cold for a shirt and my windbreaker made riding very sticky. It's nice to be back on the road again though. I made a new acquaintence over the internet from South Carolina. Hank Raines and his dogs. We have been corresponding about his bike tours and now Martha's Vinyard. Maybe someday we'll ride together. <br /><br />More later.amidnightriderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13961440167635690163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12767336.post-1155491162413813432006-08-13T12:41:00.000-04:002006-08-14T09:17:45.783-04:00Preparing for the Holiday TripDistance 74 miles (two days)<br /><br />I have been increasing my riding and fitness in anticipation of our trip to France and Spain. Todd has all our reservations in Spain and Keith recently booked our French accomodations. We are good to go. Now let's hope all this foolishness about bringing water and dirty underwear on a flight is over with. Enough with the politics already.<br /><br />I went online to choses our seats for the flight and naturally all the good seats were taken. The best I could do for Sue and I were aisle seats across from each other. Same thing on the way home. <br /><br />One last item to take care of is getting tickets to a game. AC Barcellona would be great, but just attending a football match in France or Spain would be great. Marselle is the home of Zidane. Wouldn't it be something to run into him.<br /> <br />Friday was a half day at work and I decided to bring my bike, ride home, and do a return ride on Saturday to retrieve the car. Fridays' ride was perfect. Nice weather, made good time and enjoyed every moment. I got home in time to shower and load my backpack for a trip to the dentist then the gym. I am doing a workout that was developed for the astronauts. Time will tell how good it works. <br /><br />Saturday, I decided to stop for a light breakfast at McDonnalds. (One of those egg in a tortilla things). That decision produced quite an adventure. Eating a McD's anything, can ruin a nice bike ride. Actually I remember our college soccer team having McDonalds' food before a game. It felt like we were running in ankle deep mud for the whole match. Riding a bike felt the same way. The first 10 miles was painfull to say the least. Gradually the effects wore off and the ride was much better. It took the better part of an hour and four rest stops to recover. The actual pedal time to the office was two hours and change. It took me four hours to get there with all the stops. Mostly for picture taking. <br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/McDonaldsGang.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />The McDonalds locals.<P><P></font><P><P><br />I have passed this little grass runway airport many times. Today was the day to stop and look around.<P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/biking/Berkeyfighterplane.jpg"><P><p><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/biking/BlueplaneinBerkley.jpg"><P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/biking/PaddelfordTree.jpg"><br><font color=red> Back on the road in Berkley Ma.</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/biking/PaththroughPaulDevershcoo.jpg"><br><font color=red> Path through abandoned state school</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/biking/Lonelychildsslide.jpg"><br><font color=red> A lonely slide at Dever State Hospital for severly retarded and deformed children. </font><P><P><br /><br />I'll be back on the bike commuting tomorrow after a well earned day off today. <br />Lateramidnightriderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13961440167635690163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12767336.post-1154810894010431942006-08-05T15:53:00.000-04:002006-08-05T16:54:43.466-04:00Ice Cream 20Distance 23 miles<br />Weather 80 degrees, still, early evening.<br /><br />After a week of excessive heat and humidity, that brought the index to a scortching 110, the relief of a cold front that dropped the temps into the low 80's, was too good to pass up. Sue and I decided on a Friday evening ride on the country roads near our home. It's called the ice cream 20 because in the 20 mile loop there are four ice cream shops calling like the sirenes of Homers' Odyssey. <br /><br />The grammer school our sons attended has been demolished and a new school is being built on the site. We were glad to see that the trees the boys classes had planted twenty something years ago were untouched and are thriving.<P><P><br /><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Country%20Riding/Ice%20Cream%20ride%204%20Aug%2006/KeithandToddsClasstrees.jpg"><br><font color=red> Trees the boys classes planted at East Fairhaven Ma. Elementary school</font></center><P><P><br /><br />We headed north on the quiet country roads of Fairhaven to the Acushnet line and the lakes of Acushnet Road. So little traffic uses these roads that one sometimes wonder why they are still there. But the roads are great for cycling. <P><P><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Country%20Riding/Ice%20Cream%20ride%204%20Aug%2006/NewBostonRd.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Country%20Riding/Ice%20Cream%20ride%204%20Aug%2006/HouseonlakeAcushnetMa.jpg"><br><font color=red> House on a lake<P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Country%20Riding/Ice%20Cream%20ride%204%20Aug%2006/AcushnetRd.jpg"><br> Acushnet Rd. Patriotic home<P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Country%20Riding/Ice%20Cream%20ride%204%20Aug%2006/AcushnetRdHome.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Country%20Riding/Ice%20Cream%20ride%204%20Aug%2006/Rt.jpg"></font></center><br /><br />Our ride took us into the town of Rochester and our first ice cream stand. We also came across the day camp where Todd, our youngest, attended a couple of his pre teen summers.<P><P><br /><center><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Country%20Riding/Ice%20Cream%20ride%204%20Aug%2006/CountryWhip.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Country%20Riding/Ice%20Cream%20ride%204%20Aug%2006/LongPlainChurch.jpg"></center><P><P><br />As the sun began to drop towards the horizon, Sue and I turned east to begin the loop back towards home. The evening became very still and was as quiet as the roads we were traversing, and the setting sun provided plenty of sights. <P><P><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Country%20Riding/Ice%20Cream%20ride%204%20Aug%2006/CountryHome.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Country%20Riding/Ice%20Cream%20ride%204%20Aug%2006/Shedinwoods.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Country%20Riding/Ice%20Cream%20ride%204%20Aug%2006/LongPlaincows.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Country%20Riding/Ice%20Cream%20ride%204%20Aug%2006/RochesterFireDept.jpg"><br><font color=red> Rochester Fire house. A bike tourers friend. <P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Country%20Riding/Ice%20Cream%20ride%204%20Aug%2006/RochesterGrangeHall.jpg"><br><br />Here too</font></center><br /><br />As we approached the half way point, a drink break was in order. <center><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Country%20Riding/Ice%20Cream%20ride%204%20Aug%2006/SueatLloydsMarket.jpg"><br><font color=red> We stopped here for water. What were you thinking?</font></center><br /><P><P><br />With the low sun at our back we made the final turn towards home.<center><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Country%20Riding/Ice%20Cream%20ride%204%20Aug%2006/RoundsvilleRd.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Country%20Riding/Ice%20Cream%20ride%204%20Aug%2006/BowenLnTactorinSun.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Country%20Riding/Ice%20Cream%20ride%204%20Aug%2006/RochesterGolfClub.jpg"><br><font color=red> Rochester Ma. Golf club<P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Country%20Riding/Ice%20Cream%20ride%204%20Aug%2006/9thHole.jpg"><br><br />The 9th hole<P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Country%20Riding/Ice%20Cream%20ride%204%20Aug%2006/SuenearRochesterGolf.jpg"><br><br />Vaughn Hill Rd. The hill is behind us. <P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Country%20Riding/Ice%20Cream%20ride%204%20Aug%2006/VaughnHillRd.jpg"><br><br />Lonely Vaughn Hill<P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Country%20Riding/Ice%20Cream%20ride%204%20Aug%2006/HartleyRd.jpg"><br><br />Hartely Rd. home<P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Country%20Riding/Ice%20Cream%20ride%204%20Aug%2006/CranberryBog.jpg"><br><br />Cranberry Bogs<P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Country%20Riding/Ice%20Cream%20ride%204%20Aug%2006/CranberryBogsinMattapoisette.jpg"><br><br />Road along Cranberry bogs.<P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Country%20Riding/Ice%20Cream%20ride%204%20Aug%2006/NorthSt.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Country%20Riding/Ice%20Cream%20ride%204%20Aug%2006/SwimHoleAcushnetRd.jpg"><br><br />Swim Hole<P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Country%20Riding/Ice%20Cream%20ride%204%20Aug%2006/FavoriteHouseAcushnetRd.jpg"></font></center>amidnightriderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13961440167635690163noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12767336.post-1153147927077235012006-07-17T09:16:00.000-04:002006-07-17T13:11:47.083-04:00Riding with AustinMy young neighbor expressed an interest in doing a long bike ride. "How about 20 miles right now", I asked? "OK" was his reply. We took the New Bedford waterfront route. Over the bridge and I showed him how to portage his bike down the stairs.<br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Winter%20Bike%2006/CrossingtheBridge.jpg"><br /> <br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/Stairwaytobikeheaven.jpg"><P><P><br /><br />It was necessary in a few spots to do some "street" riding. Austin easily picked up the techinque of watching, listening and signaling when making lane changes and turns.<br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/Riding%20with%20Austin/AustinridingRodneyFrenchBvfd.jpg"><br /><br /><br />We made our way into Fort Rodman where we stopped to check out Battery Miliken (an old WWII large gun battery, that protected the harbor). <br /><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/misc/BatteryMiliken.jpg"><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/Riding%20with%20Austin/BatteryMiliken2_1.jpg"><br /><br />We moved on to Battery Edwards and found a tunnel underneath. It was too dark to explore completely, but was worth a look. <br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/Riding%20with%20Austin/BatteryEdwardsTunnel_1.jpg"><br><font color=red> I'm not going in there</font><br /><br />Further into the old base, we visited Fort Taber, a civil war era stone fort designed by Robert E Lee and built in 1862. <br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/FortTabor1.jpg"><br /><br />We were not able to get inside but there were spots chipped out of some of the windows, that allowed us to look in. <br /><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/Riding%20with%20Austin/FortTaber2_1.jpg"><br><font color=red> I wish I could go in there<br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/misc/CrackinFtTaborWall.jpg"></font><br /><br />Out of nowhere we heard rumbling. A truck? Nooooo. Thunder? Nooooo. Empty stomachs? Of course. We both knew it was time for lunch. Chicken and a frappe. (a frappe is a milk shake with ice cream for all you non NorEasterners). Black and white of course. Vanilla syrup with chocolate ice cream.<br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/Riding%20with%20Austin/Lunch.jpg"><br /><br />After lunch we began the trek home. A stop at Palmers Island where the tide was still too high to walk across. We could only sit and dream about visiting the light house on the island. We rode through the old Berkshire Hathaway complex to get to the hurricane barrier at Palmers Island. <br /><br /> <br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Winter%20Bike%2006/FactoryAlley.jpg"><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/Riding%20with%20Austin/WetfeetatPalmersIsland_1.jpg"><br><font color=red> I wish I could go over there.</font><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/Riding%20with%20Austin/FairhavenfromPalmersIsland_1.jpg"><br><font color=red>Fairhaven from New Bedford side of barrier. </font><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/stormyPalmersIsland.jpg"><br><font color=red> We were trying to get to this light house.</font><br /><br /><br />We took a tour of pier two where a big part of the fishing fleet docks.<br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/Riding%20with%20Austin/Pier2_1.jpg"><br><font color=red> Austin checking out the fleet.</font><br /><br />We road to the top of the walkway over rt18 downtown and watched as the boats were loading up with ice.<br /> <br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/Riding%20with%20Austin/BoatleavingtheIceHouse_1.jpg"><br><font color=red> This boat had just taken on a load of ice. </font><br /><br />Before climbing the stairs at the bridge, we went into the belly under the bridge, and talked about the men that built it so many years ago. Most of the stuff was done by hand and we looked at the tens of thousands of rivets that were manually put on by the builders. Also the artwork done by those craftsmen.<br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/UndertheBridge.jpg"><br><font color=red> Under the bridge</font><br /><br />We were soon back in Fairhaven.<br /><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/biking/MainStFairhaven.jpg"><br /><br />We ended the ride with some "sprint" riding through the back lots of the super markets and the activity center. Round in circles, jumping curbs and racing down the final stretch of the bike path home. <br /><br />A great 19 mile first "real" ride for Austin, and I think he had fun. <br /><br /> <br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/Riding%20with%20Austin/AustinatWestBeach_1.jpg">amidnightriderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13961440167635690163noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12767336.post-1152900733553019572006-07-14T13:31:00.000-04:002006-07-14T15:13:21.123-04:00AHAArt, History, Architecture. A monthly festival in the Historic Seaport of New Bedford, Ma. <br /><br />I was enlightened to the diversity of the city. A young artsy crowd mingled freely with the older "hippys". <br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/AHA%2013_July_2006/AHAbabes.jpg"><br /><br /><br />Skateboarders where everywhere but sill out of everyone's way. Young musicians proudly showing their talent at "open mike" <br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/AHA%2013_July_2006/Openmikefiddler.jpg"><br /><br />There were many oportunities to listen to or participate in music. The "Drums of New Bedford", where anyone could sit in, regardless of experience.<br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/AHA%2013_July_2006/Drums.jpg"><br /><br />Or a visitor could stroll into Wings Court to watch, listen and dance to very good local bands. <br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/AHA%2013_July_2006/WingsCourt.jpg"><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/AHA%2013_July_2006/Band.jpg"><br /><br />Bicycles are becomming more noticeable because of the younger college population created by UMass Art school downtown. Along with a plethora of art galleries and studios<br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/AHA%2013_July_2006/ArtWorksbike.jpg"><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/AHA%2013_July_2006/univega.jpg"><br /><br />There are some aspiring souls that try to combine things, like bikes and cameras to create art.<br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/AHA%2013_July_2006/Drumslookingthroughspokes.jpg"><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/AHA%2013_July_2006/Drumsthruframe.jpg"><br /><br /><br />Architecture is a big part of the city and there are some really great masterpieces. You just have to slow down and look. <br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/AHA%2013_July_2006/MerchantsBank.jpg"><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/AHA%2013_July_2006/UnionSt.jpg"><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Waterfront/NationalPark3.jpg"><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Winter%20Bike%2006/NB%20Architecture/GingerbreadhouseNB.jpg">amidnightriderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13961440167635690163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12767336.post-1152192184886878412006-07-06T08:05:00.000-04:002006-08-16T13:48:22.226-04:00Colorado Mountains and PathsWifey and I spent the holiday weekend in Colorado visiting #1 son Keith. We took a late flight Thursday 29 June arriving around midnight. Keith met us at the airport and transported ma and pa to his new condo in Loveland. Since he was working on Friday, we took his car and drove to Cheyenne Wyoming to shop at Sierra Trading Post. Sue found some great deals and loaded up on shoes. Three pair, along with all the other stuff to weight down the plane on the return flight. <br /><br /><b><u>Saturday 30 June.</u></b><br /><br />Keith and Sue did a long hike somewhere near Fort Collins. They dropped me downtown and I found a pub showing the World Cup match featuring France/Brasil. In the morning we had watched Italy defeat England on penaltys. Rooney got his deserved red card. Such a good player with so little class. <br /><br /><b><u>Sunday, 1 July.</u></b><P> <br />No football today, which give us plenty of time to do some Colorado stuff. Sue took the car and went for a hike, while Keith and I rode our bikes to the bus station in Boulder. We packed our bikes and rode up 3000 feet to the small town of Nederland, to begin a bike ride in the mountains. We climbed an additional 1000' on the Peak to Peak Highway.<P><br /> <br />The Sunshine Canyon Rd., a dirt road that decended 4000' took us back to our accomodations in Boulder. We stopped for a light lunch in a very liberal town called Gold Hill. Pop 118. A young high school girl served us and explained the owners politics. I didn't think there could be someone more liberal than me. I guess we learn something new every day, if you ask.<P><P><br /><br /><center><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Riding%20in%20the%20Mountains/Busstopinmountains.jpg"><br /><br><font color=red>Assembling bikes after bus ride.</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Riding%20in%20the%20Mountains/IknowIcanIknowIcan.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />IknowIcan IknowIcan<P><P></font></center><br />I had to stop quite a few times on the climb for a short rest and water breaks. The views, as expected were spectacular. For example. <P><P><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Riding%20in%20the%20Mountains/Mountainviewonpassride.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Riding%20in%20the%20Mountains/oneofthefewflatsonthepass.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Riding%20in%20the%20Mountains/passview3.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Riding%20in%20the%20Mountains/Viewfromtopofmountain.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Riding%20in%20the%20Mountains/Alongclimb.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Riding%20in%20the%20Mountains/Boatattopofmountain.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />Spotted this at the top of a mountain.</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Riding%20in%20the%20Mountains/Goingdownhill.jpg"><br /></center><P><P><br /><br />It seemed like we climed a lot more than our odeometer said. Every time I thought we creasted the peak, I got to look up again. Keith, my guide gave me the option of continuing another three miles of rolling hills or take a dirt road down to the house. I told him that he was in charge. Until we got to the dirt road that is. It was like a cow smelling the barn. Once there I opted to begin the decent. <P><br />Climbing on a bike with tires the size of my thigh made it difficult to exceed 5 or 6 mph. It was almost as difficult to keep the bike under 40 MPH on the decent. It's a good thing my bike had disk brakes because I would have burned up the usualy type.<P><br />Buckle up for the descent. <P><P><center><br /> <br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Riding%20in%20the%20Mountains/Keithdownhillondirt.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Riding%20in%20the%20Mountains/downhillondirt.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Riding%20in%20the%20Mountains/Downhillondirthairpin.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />If you miss this turn, expect around eight minutes of air time</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Riding%20in%20the%20Mountains/anothermini.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Riding%20in%20the%20Mountains/KeithLookingtostartingroadbelow.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />Keith looking below to the road where we began this ride </font></center><P><P><br />We stopped for lunch in the small town of Gold Hill. <P><P><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Riding%20in%20the%20Mountains/EnteringGoldHill.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />Entering Gold Hill</font><P><P> <br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Riding%20in%20the%20Mountains/GoldHillCoolAidkids.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />The cool aid stand welcoming committee of Gold Hill Colorado</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Riding%20in%20the%20Mountains/GoldHillStore.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />Lunch stop</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Riding%20in%20the%20Mountains/GoldHillInn.jpg"><P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Riding%20in%20the%20Mountains/GoldHillhome2.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Riding%20in%20the%20Mountains/Grazingdeer.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Riding%20in%20the%20Mountains/UpGoldHill.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />The last climb of the day. I had to walk this one.</font><P><P></center><br />After a four thousand foot decent, we arrived at our mountain canyon home for the day. Coincidentally, only a few houses away from Tyler Hamilton.<P><P><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/CanyonHouse.jpg"><P><P></center><br /><b><u> Tuesday 4 July</u></b><P><P><br />Keith and I had the morning to bike ride before the Italy/Germany match. We decided on the Boulder bike routes and trails. This is more my type of riding. I have to say that if I did live in the mountains I probably would ride them once a week. Living in Boulder I would definitely be a year round, weather be dammed, bike commuter. Kind of like I am here. We rode the final couple of miles down the mountain into the city and began our holiday ride.<P><P><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Boulderride4.jpg"><br><font color=red> <br />First things first. Riding to breakfast</font><P><P></center><br />Part of the ride was on roads.<P><P><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/BoulderRide3.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Boulderrideview4.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/CollegerBldginBoulder.jpg"></center><P><P><br />Some was on paved paths<P><P><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Boulderpath2.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Boulderpathstream.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Boulderpond.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Carspeopleandbikes.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />Room for everyone. Vehicles, peds and bikes.</font><P><P></center><br />Much of the ride was on hardpacked dirt trails.<P><P><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Boulderdirtpath.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Keithondirtpath.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Theoldmanandthemountains2.jpg"><P><P></center><br />The views were always great.<center><P><P><br /><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Boulderridemountainview.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Dirtpathrideview1.jpg"><P><P></center><br />But as a famous Trans Am rider warned, <br /><a href="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/MikeRiscicalike.jpg" target="_blank">"Watch for bananas"</a><P><P><br /><u><b>Going home</b></u><P><br />After the ride we had planned a gathering to watch Italy/Germany with a few of Keiths friends. As we were about to leave the canyon home, a couple of squatters moved in under the porch. I was told they had moved in a few weeks ago and they must have been away for the holidays. <P><P><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/Deerinwindow1.jpg"><P><P></center><br />We ended the trip at the Revs/Rapids match in Denver but did not see the whole thing because of the weather. <P><P><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Boulder/StormyRapidsGame.jpg"><br><font color=red><br />Revs ended up losing 3-2</font></center><P><P><br />The Endamidnightriderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13961440167635690163noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12767336.post-1150601184016183392006-06-17T23:23:00.000-04:002006-06-19T20:53:22.780-04:00Lobster and Biking on Cape CodGandalf and Crys both called for directions within 15 minutes of each other. I rode my bike up the street and met them in the parking lot of my favorite package store. In my excitement I forgot the camera. Forgetting items would become the theme of the weekend.<P><br />They followed me back to the house where everyone got settled and we reacquainted ourselves over some cold Heineken and guacamole dip.<P><P><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Cocktailsonthedeck-1.jpg"><P><P><br /><br /><P><P></center><br /><br />We agreed on a restaurant, Freestones, located on the National Whaling Historic Park in New Bedford, Ma. Soon after being seated, the manager approached us and asked if we would be willing to change tables. No problem for us, and for our courtesy, the drinks were on the house. <P><br /> Sue and Margie each had a fancy martini. Gandalf and I shared a nice bottle of Pinot Noir. Both the ladies chose a huge lobster roll, Dave decided on a sirloin steak, the size of which made him bug eyed, and I opted for my favorite, chicken Quesadilla. The theme….no camera.<br /><br />Sunday was a light breakfast before beginning the biking part of the QSJ Lobster bike fest. <P><P><center><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/DaveandMargiehavingcoffee.jpg"><P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Crysatbreakfastonthedeck-1.jpg"></center><P><P><br /><br />We somehow managed to load four bikes in, on and around my car. <P><P><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Loadingthevibeforthebikeride.jpg"> <P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/GandalfinDriveway.jpg"></center><P><P><br /><br />The East Bay Bike Path (EBBP) is a 13.5 mile paved trail that runs along the Providence River beginning in East Providence, continuing through the towns of Riverside, Warren, and Barrington, RI. The path ends/begins in the quaint seaside town of Bristol RI. A town that boasts one of the largest 4th of July parades in the country. <P><br />I wanted to ride a bit and make adjustments to the bikes for fit, but in keeping the the weekend theme, I forgot my tools at home. It must have been painfull for Dave and Margie to ride 25 plus miles on ill fitting bikes, OUCH! <P><P><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/SueandDaveontheEBBP.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Saddleup.jpg"><P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Stopeatingmeat.jpg"><P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/EBBPLighthouse.jpg"><P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Bestlemonade.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Swans.jpg"><P><P><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/SueandMargieinBarringtonRI.jpg"><P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/MargieatHalfwaypoint.jpg"><P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/DaveatHalfwaypt.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/SueandMargieinBristol.jpg"><br /></center><P><P><br /><br />In Bristol, we took a lunch break at a local waterfront pub. Typical New England fare included, chowda, clam cakes, and fish sandwich. All washed down with some very good Czech pilsner beer. In honor of the world cup going on. <P><P><center><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Chowdaandclamcakesforlunch.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Family%20and%20Friends/Friendlywaitstaff.jpg"></center><br /><br /><br />We made good time on the return 13 mile ride with the wind at our backs. Dave had to catch a flight back to Houston, and Margie was scheduled to meet business associates in Providence. Me? I had to rush home to watch the US/Italy match, and what a match it was. We coulda beat em. But a 1-1 draw keeps us in the running to advance. Beating Ghana on Thursday would do it. GO US.amidnightriderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13961440167635690163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12767336.post-1150641597528292632006-06-12T10:38:00.000-04:002006-06-18T10:46:27.143-04:00World Cup Gelsenkirchin Germany, US/CzechKeith and I drove from Amsterdam to Gelsenkirchen, Germany to watch to US vs. Czech World Cup match. The stadium was mostly Americans and was unbelievably loud. Here are some phosto in and around the stadium, without comment. <P><P><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Gelsenkirchen/CokeinGermany.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Gelsenkirchen/contemplatingtheloss.jpg"><P>?<P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Gelsenkirchen/Gelsenkirchenstadium.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Gelsenkirchen/GoUS.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Gelsenkirchen/JohnandKeithinstadiumGelsenkirchen.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Gelsenkirchen/Onthetrainleavingthestadium.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Gelsenkirchen/Pregamefestivities1.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Gelsenkirchen/singingUSfans.jpg"><P)><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Gelsenkirchen/KeithandPainatUS_Czechmatch.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Gelsenkirchen/USCzechfans.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Gelsenkirchen/USfansnearusinstadium.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Gelsenkirchen/USfansonstageinGelsenkirchen.jpg"><P><P></center>amidnightriderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13961440167635690163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12767336.post-1150466452770621272006-06-11T09:24:00.000-04:002006-06-16T10:02:50.533-04:00Riding Bikes in AmsterdamAmsterdam could be called the "City of Bikes". All roads have bike lanes. All business have bike racks. And all Dutch have bikes. Finding a bike rental shop was no problem. Keith and I picked our up early and embarked on a Sunday Morning Dutch tour.<P><P><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Amsterdam/TeHuur.jpg"></center><P><P><br />We had quite a bit of time before meeting our friends, Elanor and Everett, in a Australian pub to watch the Holland match. <P><P><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Amsterdam/Gettingreadytoride.jpg"></center><P><P><br />Our ride took us along the canal through the Rembrant district. <P><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Amsterdam/Headedoutriding.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Amsterdam/MoreboatsalongAmsterdamCanal.jpg"></center><P><P><br />There are plenty of activities along and on the canals. People strolling, biking, and sunbathing on the shore. Houseboats are abundant on the canals and rowing is prevalent. <P><P><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Amsterdam/ParkalongAmsterdamCanal.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Amsterdam/Ridingalongcanal.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Amsterdam/Rowingpasthouseboat.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Amsterdam/FourmancrewinAmstedam.jpg"><P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Amsterdam/HouseboatsalongAmsterdamCanal.jpg"></center><P><P><br />Beautiful homes along the canal. Quaint villiage settings, and streets void of motor traffic. What more could a bike rider ask. <P><P><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Amsterdam/HomesalongcanalinAmsterdam.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Amsterdam/TownsidestreetAmsterdam.jpg"></center><P><P><br />After the bike we returned to Rebmrandsqare to secure our spot at the pub to watch the World Cup Match. All in orange of course.<P><P><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Amsterdam/WatchingWorldCupinAmsterdamCafe.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Amsterdam/BeingDutch.jpg"><br><font color=red> It is important in a foreign country not to look stupid. </font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Amsterdam/Amsterdamsidewalkcafe.jpg"><P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Amsterdam/InsideCafewatchinggame.jpg"><br><font color=red>Inside the pub at match time. </font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Amsterdam/Ohlala.jpg"><br><font color=red> Every time I want a picture, someone gets in the way.</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Amsterdam/OurwaitressinAmsterdam.jpg"><br><font color=red> See, it happened again.</font><P><P></center><br />After the match we returned with our hosts to their flat for a quiet evening of cold Dutch beer and tapas. The view from the terrace and a 10PM sunset capped a wonderfull day in Amsterdam. <P><P><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Biking%20Amsterdam/ViewfromVlindersterrace.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Amsterdam/ViewfromElanorsterraceoverlookingca.jpg"></center><P><P><br />Tomorrow, US/Czech game in Gelsenkirchen Germany. The reason we are here. <P><P><br />Gezellig.amidnightriderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13961440167635690163noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12767336.post-1150341022443833212006-06-10T21:52:00.000-04:002006-06-19T13:41:25.773-04:00AmsterdamKeith and I arrived an hour apart. We made some half assed arrangement on meeting and what to do if we did not find each other at the airport. Naturally I messed everything up. When I looked for his arrival, I saw he would be disembarking at gate three. I waited for an hour at baggage claim three at gate 8. We did manage to bump into each other just as we were about to give up and go to the hotel separately. <P><br />It didn't take long to figure the train schedules, and by asking a couple of questions at the information booth the ride from the airport to Central Station went smoothly.<br /><br />A tram from Central Station to Rembrant Square took us to the hotel. <P><P><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Amsterdam/TraintoRembrantSquare.jpg"><br><br /><font color=red> Train to Rembrantsquare</font></center><P><br />The Imperial Hotel was a great central location in a nice area that was very lively.<P><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Amsterdam/HotelImperial.jpg"><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Amsterdam/RoominAmsterdam.jpg"><br><font color=red> Small room and beds brought to mind the story of Gulliver</font></center><br /><br />We had intended to sleep a few hours before meeting our friends and doing the sights. Very seldom do things go as planned. A late arrival at the hotel gave us just enough time to shower and unpack before the phone call came announcing the arrival of our hosts, Everett and Elenor. <P><P><center><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Amsterdam/MeetingElanor.jpg"><br><font color=red> Vlinder and Clayton meet in the Imperial Hotel.</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Amsterdam/ElanorJohnEverett.jpg"><br><font color=red> Elanor, John and Everett</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Amsterdam/ElanorKeithEverett.jpg"><br><font color=red> Elanor, Keith, Everett</font><P><P><br /><br /></center><P><P><br />We walked around the old town, flee market, Rembrandt house, former Jewish quarters, weigh house and of course The Red Light District. Keith found a store that sold Dutch shoes made in his hometown in Colorado. <P><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Amsterdam/ColoradoShoesinAmsterdam.jpg"></center><P><P><br />The four of us spent the afternoon taking in the sights of the city. <P><center><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Amsterdam/Amsterdamsidewalkcafe.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Amsterdam/AnotherBulldog.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Amsterdam/BecksHotelAmsterdam.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Amsterdam/Publicmensroom.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Amsterdam/RoyalPalaceAmsterdam.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Amsterdam/ShoppingdistrictAmsterdam.jpg"><P><P><br /></center><P><P><br />Our gracious host invited Keith and I for dinner. A BBQ catered by their son Floris. Some good Dutch wine and beer with our chicken and burgers filled us to the point it was difficult to get out of the chair. That we did though, when it was clean up time. After all we were in Holland where the "Dutch treat" was probably invented. <P><br /><center><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Amsterdam/john1.jpg"><br /><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Amsterdam/KeithandEverett.jpg"><br /><br><font color=red><br />Keith and Everett talking business</font><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/Amsterdam/Lunchinthepatio.jpg"><br><font color=red> I've eaten too much and I can't get up</font></center><P><P><br />Tomorrow is Biking in Amsterdam followed by the Dutch game on TV. All the bars and cafes are decorating and bringing in many extra TVs to show the game.amidnightriderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13961440167635690163noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12767336.post-1149644106008683442006-06-06T21:31:00.000-04:002006-06-14T21:46:13.253-04:00Traffic JamRiding the new route this morning, I encountered a mini traffic jam. At 6:30 AM that is very unusual. Being on my bike naturally I drifted to the front of the line and saw this.<P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/commute/GeeseCrossingSt.jpg"><br><font color=red>Traffic jam in Taunton Ma.</font><P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/commute/Mamaandbabygeese.jpg"><br><font color=red> Mama Goose Protecting</font><P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/commute/BabyGoose.jpg"><br><font color=red> There is always one slow poke.</font><P><P><br /><br />While doing some exploring to find easier and less trafficed routes, I stumbled upon this neat little tunnel. It connects a hidden parking area, that looks to be reserved for employees of the downtown shops, with the main streets. <P><P><br /><br /><center><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/commute/ThecommutetunnelinTaunton.jpg"></center><P><P><br /><br />I have decided to forgo bus commuting. I tried three times to contact DATCO and American Eagle in Fairhaven, Ma. and no one bothered to respond. It was the bounty to transport my bike that caused me to stop commuting. $20 a week tacked on to the $35 ticket price is roughly $22 more than it cost to commute by car. I am back to driving to the mall and bike commuting from there to the office. I also save around thirty minutes on each end. But I would rather bus commute. It just makes me feel better about the whole thing.amidnightriderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13961440167635690163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12767336.post-1149538666970820042006-06-05T16:05:00.000-04:002006-06-05T16:17:46.990-04:00A Few More Commute Pictures<center><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/commute/CrazyCar.jpg"><P><P><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/commute/Bikevs.jpg"><P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/commute/DightonAirport.jpg"><br><font color=red> There is always a faster way</font><P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/commute/FairhavenPharmacy.jpg"><P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/commute/GeeseFamily.jpg"><P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/commute/Freetownroad.jpg"><br><font color=red> Part of the long commute. Freetown Ma.</font><P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/commute/Fishingfromacanoe.jpg"><P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/commute/MainStFairhaven.jpg"><br><font color=red> Downtown Fairhaven, Ma. </font><P><P><br /><br /><img src="http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/capejohn/commute/WeirDistrictcommute.jpg"><br><font color=red> Weir St. Taunton Ma.</font></center>amidnightriderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13961440167635690163noreply@blogger.com0